Microplastics Safety Act
The Microplastics Safety Act would require the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the FDA, to conduct a federal study on the human health impacts of microplastics found in food and water. The study must identify how people are exposed to microplastics (exposure pathways) and assess potential health effects, including on children, the endocrine system, cancer, chronic illnesses, and reproductive health, with room to consider other relevant areas. A report detailing the study’s findings and recommended legislative or administrative actions would be due to Congress within one year of enactment. The bill does not itself create new safety standards or rules; instead, it mandates research that could inform future policy decisions.
Key Points
- 1Mandate: The Secretary of Health and Human Services, via the FDA, must conduct a study on human health impacts of microplastics in food and water.
- 2Exposure and health focus: The study should identify major exposure pathways and evaluate effects on children, the endocrine system, cancer, chronic illness, and reproductive health, plus other important areas.
- 3Reporting deadline: A comprehensive report describing findings and recommendations must be submitted to Congress within 1 year of enactment.
- 4Potential actions: The report must include recommendations for legislative or administrative action to address any identified health impacts.
- 5Scope: The act addresses microplastics present in food and water under the jurisdiction of the FDA.